Blog Posts

July 21st 2026

21/7/2026

An interlude at Greenford
Alan Peters

The last Great Western semaphore outpost in London, Greenford with 165 119 arriving into the bay platform from Paddington on 19/05/2011. Copyright Alan Peters.

FGW Turbo unit 165 129 takes the Greenford bay platform line passing under the London Underground Central line on 19/05/2011. Copyright Alan Peters.

Greenford East signal box situated on the old GWR line to the Chilterns and controls the triangular junction to West Ealing, the London Underground line can be seen passing overhead, seen on 19/05/2011. Copyright Alan Peters.

BR (W) signal box door notice on Greenford East box 19/05/2011. Copyright Alan Peters.

Despite being on the old GWR Chiltern mainline, Greenford East is still busy with passenger services, from at the time Paddington on 19/05/2011. Copyright Alan Peters.

Greenford East signal box diagram 19/05/2011. Copyright Alan Peters.

A relic from the past in Greenford East on 19/05/2011. Copyright Alan Peters.

Looking towards the Chilterns from Greenford East signal box the now singled former GWR main line on 19/05/2011. Copyright Alan Peters.

Looking towards Old Oak Common from Greenford East signal box on 19/05/2011. Copyright Alan Peters.

Brilliant 'behind the scenes' photos Alan - thank you very much.

Roaming the rails with
Roger Winnen

Please click any of the images below to obtain an enlargement and caption.

Thanks Roger, looks like a good day out.

Class 56's
Michael Adams & Michael Forward

Here are three pictures from us of class 56s on stone trains. Firstly Michael Adam's picture of 56046 waiting for the road at Reading on 1 March 1984 with ,probably return empties from Acton to Westbury. Copyright Michael Adams.

Another from my collection showing a 56 in Railfreight grey livery at Westbury, I did not record the loco. Number. Copyright Michael Forward.

My own shot now of 56053 at Salisbury on 15 August 1989, working unknown. Copyright Michael Forward.

Many thanks Michael and Michael - I'm sure Guy V. will enjoy these!

'Ungreen' trains!
Mark Lynam

175001 & 175006 Brea, Camborne on 5Z13 0751 Plymouth to Plymouth via Penzance. 20.07.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

220025 at Brea, Camborne working 1S53 1115 Penzance to Edinburgh. 20.07.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

The Cornish mainline is a far more colourful place than it has been for many years, many thanks Mark, nice photos.

Swindon Scenes
Ken Mumford

6Q58 Swindon Transfer to Swindon Transfer via Bristol [Departmental] 27 LATE and hardly stopped on the UML 20.07.2026, copyright Ken Mumford.

1L14 Swansea to Paddington consisting of IET units 800016 and 800014. Because Chipping Sodbury tunnel is closed for some time, this train reversed at Bristol Parkway, then headed via Dr. Day's Junction, Bath Spa and Chippenham to regain its original route at Wootton Bassett Junction and thus arrived at platform 3 Swindon station 13 LATE. 20.07.2026, copyright Ken Mumford.

1G13 Paddington to Gloucester [cancelled between Gloucester and Chelltenham because of a points failure] consisting of IET unit 800033. Was 16L at Swindon, 21L at Horton Road Junction and mysteriously [was it because of the points failure?] 53L at Gloucester! 20.07.2026, copyright Ken Mumford.

Unit 158762 came into platform 3 as 2M17 from Westbury on time and left as 2M26 to Westbury on time. However an attempt had been made to remove graffiti on this carriage!! 20.07.2026, copyright Ken Mumford.

1G15 Paddington to Cheltenham Spa with IET unit 802010 which was not curtailed at Gloucester though it lost a few minutes in that area. 20.07.2026, copyright Ken Mumford.

Many thanks indeed, Ken.

Mondays Clay
Jon Hird

66759 crosses the Golant Causeway at low tide with the empty wagons from Fowey, heading back to Goonbarrow. 20.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

July 1976
Part 21
Roger Winnen

D1033 Western Trooper passes Drump Road Redruth. 24.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

A Peak passes Drump Road Redruth. 24.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

Passing trains at Drump Road Redruth. 24.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

July 20th 2026

20/7/2026

Cotswold & Exmoor Explorer
Ian Thomas & Rich Kelsey

Yet another hot and sunny day this summer of 2026, and rail enthusiasts were out and about to see a most welcome piece of railway history pass through Gloucestershire.

My wife, Jill, and I went to Cam & Dursley station to see the COTSWOLD & EXMOOR EXPLORER tour pass through on Saturday (18th). The train was a vintage 1957-built HASTINGS DEMU (Diesel Electric Multiple Unit). These operated between London Charing Cross and Hastings until their withdrawal in May 1986. They are narrow-bodied units, built especially to negotiate the narrow tunnels on that route.

No. 1013 has been lovingly restored and is seen passing Cam & Dursley en route from Hastings to Minehead via Reading, Honeybourne, Worcester and Bristol. The train left Hastings at 06:10 that morning, so it was a very long day out when you consider it did not get back until 23:00.

The picture shows Jill waving to the punters, and for her it brought back memories of these units at London Cannon Street station between 1974 and 1979, when she was working for the Lloyds Bank City Computer Centre. You could hear the distinctive thumping sound of the diesel engines across the area at that time.

This is the first time that a Hastings DEMU has worked a tour south of Standish Junction over the Midland line to Bristol since October 1985, and on that occasion the tour visited Tytherington and Sharpness.

Hastings DEMU 1013 passing Cam & Dursley with the COTSWOLD & EXMOOR EXPLORER tour 06.10 Hastings-Minehead 1Z13. 18.07.2026, copyright Ian Thomas.

Hastings DEMU passes Coaley Junction station site en route from Hastings to Minehead. 18.07.2026, copyright Ian Thomas.

1013 at Lower Wick crossing on 1Z13 06.10 Hastings - Minehead Cotswold Explorer. 18.07.2026, copyright Rich Kelsey.

Hastings DEMU 1017 on 1Z39 at Sharpness on 12.10.1985. Copyright Ian Thomas.

Many thanks Rich and Ian - what a superb machine, a credit to its owners.

The Britannic Explorer heads East
Tony Shore, Sam Sheldrick & Jon Hird

A 9am start for the Britannic Explorer, passing Golant en route to Lostwithiel after its overnight stop at Fowey Docks. 19.07.2026, copyright Tony Shore.

After dropping off its passengers at Lostwithiel (who are sent on to various activities by road), 66748 pulls the train back onto the Fowey Branch at Coulson Park so that the stock can be serviced at the level crossing. 19.07.2026, copyright Tony Shore.

66745 on the rear of the train at Coulson Park. 19.07.2026, copyright Tony Shore.

With the stock serviced and the passengers picked up from Lostwithiel, the train runs into Lostwithiel up goods loop to wait its path on to Bruton. 19.07.2026, copyright Sam Sheldrick.

A long climb to get this view and it was almost snatched away by the Paddington - Penzance IET heading west! Luckily it cleared just in time for a clear view of 66745 leading The Britannic Explorer onto Pendalake Viaduct. 19.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Many thanks Sam and Tony - I'm sure we'll see more pics of this next weekend.

Williton Railtours
Tony Shore

The Hastings DEMU heads for Minehead, passing Williton. 18.07.2026, copyright Tony Shore.

33048 on the 1410 Minehead - Bishops Lydeard. 18.07.2026, copyright Tony Shore.

33025 and 33207 arrive with a railtour from Minehead, with one of the WSR's resident class 33's in the yard. 18.07.2026, copyright Tony Shore.

47848 on the rear of the train, with the usual mismatch of liveries on the WCRC coaching stock. 18.07.2026, copyright Tony Shore.

Many thanks Tony, a busy day on the WSR!

July 1976
Part 20
Roger Winnen

A named Class 47 at Trevingey Crossing Redruth. 24.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

A Class 47 Departs Redruth for Truro etc. 24.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

July 19th 2026

19/7/2026

The Somerset Levels
Bill Elston

Oath beckoned yesterday evening to see the two railtours returning from Minehead First to go was to Paddington, hauled by 33207 and 33025, which replaced steam loco 34028 EDDYSTONE, because of the dry conditions. 18.07.2026, copyright Bill Elston.

Next was Hastings unit 1013, returning to Hastings. Both tours were seen passing Oath, Black Smock Overbridge in hazy evening sunlight. 18.07.2026, copyright Bill Elston.

Many thanks Bill, great results in what looks like tricky lighting.

66745 + 66748 work:
'The Britannic Explorer'
Jon Hird, Andrew Triggs & Sam Sheldrick

66745 and 66748 head west through Lostwithiel on the Bishops Lydeard - Penzance leg of The Britannic Explorer. 18.07.2026, copyright Sam Sheldrick.

66745 and 66748 pass the industrial landscape at Brea. 18.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

66745 leading 66748 crossing Angarrack Viaduct working 1C02 09.00 Bishops Lydeard GBRf-Penzance 'Britannic Explorer'. 18.07.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Recently named 66745 'Wigan Springs Branch' nameplate. 18.07.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Having propelled 5C02 14.26 Penzance-Penzance, 66745 with 66748 run light off Slopers. 18.07.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

66745 leads the Penzance - Fowey leg into Lostwithiel. 18.07.2026, copyright Sam Sheldrick.

66748 on the rear of the Penzance - Fowey leg at Lostwithiel. 18.07.2026, copyright Sam Sheldrick.

Many thanks all, and if you missed it this weekend 'The Britannic Explorer' is back again next week - more details in our Railtour Calendar.

Busy Hour at Blue Anchor
The WSR webcam
Paul McGwynn

1Z13 Hastings - Minehead stops to pick up the token. A screenshot of the WSR webcam, with thanks to Paul McGwynn.

The 'Thumper' restarts to Minehead. A screenshot of the WSR webcam, with thanks to Paul McGwynn.

Modern traction fans from the Steam service get in position for 1Z26 Minehead - Paddington 33207,33025,47848 on the rear. A screenshot of the WSR webcam, with thanks to Paul McGwynn.

1Z14 ‘Thumper’ unit Minehead - Hastings starts after token stop. After a brief layover in Minehead. A screenshot of the WSR webcam, with thanks to Paul McGwynn.

Many thanks Paul - a well-positioned webcam.

July 1976
Part 19
Roger Winnen

The former office of the Camborne and Redruth Tramway in West End, Redruth. 24.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

A Class 50 departs from Redruth. 24.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

45054 at Trevingey Crossing Redruth. 24.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

July 18th 2026

18/7/2026

Moorswater Sunset
Jon Hird

Shortly after 9pm, 3-car 175111 crosses Moorswater Viaduct working a Par - Laira ECS. 17.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

With the light fading fast, but some colours starting to form in the sky, 66759 heads west over Moorswater with the empty JIA's returning to Goonbarrow from Cliffe Vale. 17.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Cheltenham Spa
Mick House

802013 at Cheltenham Spa. July 2026, copyright Mick House.

197121. July 2026, copyright Mick House.

XC Voyager 221140. July 2026, copyright Mick House.

GWR 165136. July 2026, copyright Mick House.

Many thanks, Mick.

July 1976
Part 18
Roger Winnen

Demolition of Long Rock engine shed. 23.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

Demolition of Long Rock engine sheds. 23.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

A Class 08 on shunt in the long siding Penzance. 23.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

Exeter 47's
Mick House

47810 leads last weekends High Wycombe - Kingswear charter through Exeter St. Davids. 11.07.2026, copyright Mick House.

47830 on the rear. 11.07.2026, copyright Mick House.

Many thanks again, Mick.

July 17th 2026

17/7/2026

NINETEEN SIXTY FOUR – PART 115
The King's Visit to Portland in 1936
Michael L. Roach

King Edward VIII was King of England for just 326 days in 1936, from 20 January to 10 December that year. He inherited the title from his father, being the eldest son, upon his father's death on Monday 20 January 1936. His father was George V who reigned for 26 years from 1910 to 1936. We read a little about Edward VIII in Part 112 when he paid a visit by train to South Wales to visit the “Special Areas.” This was a government initiative to regenerate depressed areas (nothing new there). A few weeks earlier Edward VIII had paid a visit to Portland in Dorset, also by train, because it was the natural way for the monarch to travel any distance up until then, although air travel was just starting to creep in. The King chose to travel by the Great Western route via Westbury, Yeovil and Weymouth. I don't get a chance to mention Portland in these columns very often so it is a good chance to recount the details of his outward journey from Paddington to Portland.

The route branches off the main line to Penzance at Castle Cary and then passes through Yeovil Pen Mill, Maiden Newton and Dorchester to Weymouth and Portland. The route was then double track all the way, but has long ago been singled from Castle Cary to Dorchester – a distance of 32 miles. I was a bit surprised to find that even the quieter part of the route from Castle Cary to Maiden Newton was open all night in 1936 six days a week only closing overnight Sunday – Monday. A Service Timetable for 1932 shows a number of freight trains grinding their way up to the summit at Yetminster Tunnel, such as 1.05am Bristol to Weymouth goods train; the 10.50pm (previous day) Paddington to Weymouth goods, which passed through Yeovil PM while the 1.05 Bristol was there shunting. In the other direction; the 12.20am Weymouth to Bristol goods train; the 4.30am Weymouth to Bristol goods train; the return Paddington goods departed Weymouth at 6.35pm; and there was also a milk train to Paddington at 3.55pm.

The following times come from the public passenger timetable for Summer 1932 and the service timetable for Area 3 which is Reading to Taunton and Thingley Junction to Weymouth also for Summer 1932. The last down passenger train was the 10.20pm Yeovil (Pen Mill) to Weymouth (arr. 11.15pm) and the first down train next day the 6.00am Dorchester to Portland, with the first longer distance train being the 6.00am from Bristol TM due Weymouth Town at 9.10am. Although the line was open continuously except for Sunday night – Monday morning, many of the boxes were switched out and others closed for a short period in the middle of the night e.g Evershot Box closed 3.00am to 5.30am/6.00am Mondays; leaving some very long sections. The reader can work out how long from the scan of the signal box list attached. Northbound freight trains were often banked up the 4-mile climb at 1 in 51 from Maiden Newton to Evershot. It can be seen that there was plenty of time to fit in the King's train during the night.

The King and his entourage travelled to Portland in four coaches which included a sleeping car and a dining saloon. It was the King's express wish that his rail journeys to both Wales and Portland be made as informal as possible. To that end the King's 4C were attached to the rear of the Paddington to Penzance newspaper and parcels train early on the morning of Thursday 12 November 1936. This left Paddington hauled by King-class engine 6029 “King Edward VIII” at 12.50am. At Westbury the 4C were detached and worked forward as a private special train leaving at 2.33am, and passing Yeovil PM around 3.10 to 3.15 am, before either of the down freight trains were due there. The train arrived at Portland at 4.20am where it was berthed in the goods yard, with the train engine kept on the train to provide steam heating. The train engine was not recorded but could have been one of Westbury's small number of Hall-class engines or a Churchward Mogul of which Westbury Shed had several examples

Sometimes a story like this remains half-written or just an idea for months, or even years. The thing that prompts the completion of such an article is often some barely connected or external occurrence. In this case it was the purchase, on Ebay, on 28 June 2026 of a GWR Service Timetable (i.e. WTT) from the 1930s covering Area 3 which is Reading to Taunton and Weymouth. This would tell me whether the line was open all night; the freight trains running through the night; and the opening hours for the signal boxes along the line. In the case of this article I was particularly interested in the 39 miles from Castle Cary to Weymouth.

The GWR Magazine recorded the King's trip to Portland in the following words in the December 1936 issue:

Last month the Great Western Railway was privileged to convey His Majesty King Edward VIII by rail from Paddington to Portland for the review of the Home Fleet, and to South Wales for his tour of the Special Areas. At His Majesty's request both journeys were made as informal as possible, and the Great Western Railway Company's ordinary rolling stock was used. In the case of the South Wales tour, the train was made the Royal headquarters during the two-day visit. The trains on both the journeys were in the charge of Mr. F.R. Potter, Superintendent of the Line.

Each of the Royal visits started with a night journey from Paddington station. For the Portland visit, four coaches, including a sleeping car and a dining saloon, were attached to the rear of the 12.50am Paddington to Penzance newspaper and parcels train on Thursday 12 November 1936 and the train was run as far as Westbury as a passenger train, drawn by the locomotive “King Edward VIII” (No. 6029).

At Westbury the four coaches were detached, and at 2.33am they were worked forward as a private special train. Portland was reached at 4.20am, and here the coaches were berthed in the goods yard. The engine was kept attached to the coaches to maintain the steam heating. Shortly after 9.00am the coaches were drawn to the down platform where the King, who had breakfasted in the saloon, alighted for the civic reception.

The return journey was made on Friday 13 November 1936. The coaches were attached next the engine of the 2.30pm ordinary passenger train from Weymouth, and at Westbury were transferred to a similar position on the 11.10am from Penzance to Paddington, which train made a special stop at Slough to enable the King to alight there. Teas was served on the journey.

POSTSCRIPT

It was interesting to read in Latest Input on Wednesday (15.07.2026) of Alan Peters move to Paddington for a short while in 2011. The GWR made similar staff moves in the 1930s when there was peak demand at some coastal sheds with drivers and firemen wishing to take their holidays with their children at a time when there were extra summer-dated trains to be run. In the Great Western's case the footplatemen came from sheds in the Valleys of South Wales and were sent to sheds like Weymouth for six to eight weeks, The men could be spared because of reduced demand for coal in summer.

Photo of 6029 King Edward VIII as it looked in 1936

List of Signal Boxes between Yeovil and Weymouth in Summer 1932

Many thanks as always Mike, and glad to hear you enjoyed Alans photos too.

For more of Michaels articles, please click here.

The West Somerset Railway
Mick House

Photographs from a visit to the WSR on 11.06.2026 (click for enlargements and captions - all images copyright Mick House).

Many thanks Mick, a lovely railway well cared for by its volunteers.

Thursdays Clay
Tony Shore & Jon Hird

66759 stabled in Par Chapel Siding having arrived with 4 JIA's from Treviscoe. 16.07.2026, copyright Tony Shore.

With the afternoon driver in the seat, 66759 passes Respryn with its 4 wagons in tow. These will be added to the 11 at Exeter Riverside which arrived on Wednesday from Par Harbour, and the train of 15 will make its way to Cliffe Vale for unloading. 16.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

66759 continues on, crossing East Largin viaduct. 16.07.2026, copyright Tony Shore.

Many thanks Tony.

July 1976
Part 17
Roger Winnen

D1054 Western Govenor departs Penzance. 21.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

D1005 Western Venturer arrives at Penzance. 22.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

D1058 Western Nobleman at Marazion. 22.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

D1058 Western Nobleman at Penzance Station. 22.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

July 16th 2026

16/7/2026

The final days of Par Harbour
Jon Hird, Neil Phillips, Mark Lynam, Tony Shore & Clive Smith

Industry sources have suggested that Wednesday 15 July could mark the final train to be loaded at Par Harbour, with the site's drier understood to be scheduled for closure within the next 10 to 14 days.

There remains the possibility however, that any surplus stock meeting Stoke's required specification could still be dispatched by rail, although this has yet to be confirmed.

The harbour complex itself will remain under Imerys ownership, with the stores continuing to be stocked. Product will instead be transported via the private haul road – formerly a rail line – to the deep-water port at Fowey for onward shipment by sea.

While a small number of further rail movements cannot be ruled out, it appears increasingly likely that the era of regular rail freight from Par Harbour has now come to an end.

For hundreds of historical photographs of Par Harbour, check out our St. Blazey & Par Harbour Gallery - click here. Or, go back in time even further, and visit the Par Harbour - Fowey Gallery.

A little before 7am, 66759 arrives at St. Blazey from Goonbarrow with the empty JIA's in tow as 6T53. 15.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

66759 arrives in St Blazey Yard at 0700 with the 11 empty JIA wagons. 15.07.2026, copyright Neil Phillips.

66759 performing the run-round manoeuvre. 15.07.2026, copyright Neil Phillips.

GBRf's Simon K arrives to unlock and open the gates, with assistance of Imerys operative Emma S. 15.07.2026, copyright Tony Shore.

With the gates already open the first JIA wagon appears.... 15.07.2026, copyright Neil Phillips.

After running round on 'The Fowey Main' in St. Blazey, 66759 now propels its train into the harbour complex. 15.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

The view from ground level as the train reverses over the crossing. 15.07.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

With thanks to GBRf and Imerys, the CRS headboard was carried on the train for the trip from the Par Moor road crossing into the harbour, and remained with the train during the various shunt moves. Tony Shore sets up his camcorder and Neil Phillips moves in for a photo. 15.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Driver Martyn T waits to push the train back whilst the shunters walk down to the harbour. 15.07.2026, copyright Tony Shore.

The train begins to propel back into the harbour. 15.07.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

66759 propels its train beneath the Cornish Mainline and into the harbour. 15.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

A scene early Wednesday drivers along the A3082 will sadly soon no longer be treated to. 15.07.2026, copyright Neil Phillips.

127-ton tight squeeze under the Cornish main line! 15.07.2026, copyright Neil Phillips.

66759 shunts the wagons in the harbour complex. 15.07.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

More shunting in the harbour where the wagons are split into 3 shorter rakes to be loaded. 15.07.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

66759 has fun moving the 11 JIAs around inside the docks complex. 15.07.2026, copyright Neil Phillips.

With loading complete, the train draws out of the harbour and heads for the level crossing once more. Neil P. walking alongside the train. 15.07.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

66759 crosses Par Moor road for the second time with the loaded wagons from the harbour. 15.07.2026, copyright Tony Shore.

From the other side of the harbour as the train complete with headboard heads back to St. Blazey. 15.07.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

Having run round its wagons 66759 bakes in the sunshine alongside the M Power Kernow facilities at St. Blazey, awaiting the afternoon driver who will take it on to Exeter Riverside as 6C53. 15.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

After a Newquay-bound IET had gone by, the clay was reversed out of St. Blazey yard and back to St. Blazey signalbox. 15.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

66759 passes the foot crossing at St. Blazey with 6C53. 15.07.2026, copyright Tony Shore.

I was travelling by train between Par and Ivybridge and overtook the clays at Plymouth so was lucky to have two bites of the cherry with my camera as 6C53 was running around two hours early. It's seen passing beneath the historic footbridge at Bodmin Parkway. 15.07.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

A lush scene at Largin with all of the trees in leaf as 6C53 crosses the viaduct. 15.07.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

6C53 again, passing beneath the less historic footbridge at Ivybridge. 15.07.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

Many thanks to all for the photographs, and a big thank you to GBRf for taking the CRS headboard for a ride along the branch whilst it's still possible.

We will await further developments before assigning a 'time of death' to the line!

Nick Perring Photos #21
45112 - Minehead - 2007
Clive Smith

Following on from my photo of D7017 at Minehead a few days ago and Nick's of 47830 on FGW 'fag packet' livery coaches, here is another shot of the location and more of the coaches.

45112 awaits departure on the 28th May 2007 from Minehead with the Heartland Rail 'The North Star Special' 1Z48 17.10 Minehead -Derby return railtour with 47828 on the rear. The outward had 47840 'North Star' double headed with 47828 with 45112 on the rear. 47840 operated the tour as part of the formal hand-over from Porterbrook Leasing to the DEPG, its new owners who are based at the West Somerset Railway. The stock seems to be a scratch rake of three ex - First Great Western green 'fag packet' livery coaches, one red ex-Virgin coach and two unidentified light coloured coaches.

At the 2005 Diesel Gala on the line 45112 was one of the visiting locos and looked quite smart after a repaint. Here in 2007 the peak is looking washed out and in need of another repaint but that never happened as this was 45112's last ever main line run. The loco has been at Nemesis Rail's depot at Burton ever since, occasionally seen shunting in the yard there but I'm not sure of its current state or future.

45112 awaits departure on the 28th May 2007 from Minehead with the Heartland Rail 'The North Star Special' 1Z48 17.10 Minehead -Derby return railtour with 47828 on the rear. Copyright Clive Smith (original photographer Nick Perring).

Many thanks indeed Clive. 45112 looking in a sorry way there - hopefully a brighter future awaits.

Oxford Station - 'as was'
Roger Geach

A little out of the region, but I thought some may like to see this view of Oxford Station during November 1968, taken by Doug Nicholls. I think the signals lasted until 1973. Copyright Roger Geach (original photographer Doug Nicholls).

Many thanks Roger, I'm sure plenty of people will enjoy seeing this, even if a little outside our normal area.

Penzance test train
Mark Lynam

950001 in the sidings at Penzance having arrived in the early hours of the morning from Plymouth. The unit had been pathed to visit the Fowey and Parkandillack branches, but appears to have instead run direct to Penzance. For the last couple of years, every visit this unit has made to the west has been toted as it's last, however it keeps on coming back for more! Perhaps this time really will be its final visit. 15.07.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

Many thanks Mark - will we see it again?!

Class 59's
Michael Forward

A look back at the class 59/1s,which arrived in the UK in October 1990 and were put into service the following month. Here is 59102 coming through Salisbury ,from Westbury. I did not record the date but the loco. looks newish and was not carrying a name(named from May1992 I think). Copyright Michael Forward.

Now back at Westbury we see 59101 moving around the yard. Probably early 1991. They are still going strong and this engine now carries a green 'Heidelberg' livery. Copyright Michael Forward.

Many thanks Michael. Disliked as they are by many enthusiasts, as well as the 66's which they share a bodyshell with, they must go down as one of the biggest success stories for a railfreight locomotive in recent history.

July 1976
Part 16
Roger Winnen

D1048 Western Lady at the Mexico Crossing Long Rock. 21.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

Class 47 'Titan' at Penzance. 21.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

A Peak crossing St Germans Viaduct. 21.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

July 15th 2026

15/7/2026

'The view from here'
Alan Peters

Sorting out some of my odd pictures, thankfully I did not delete these as a scene that can not be repeated when I was based at Paddington for a short while. The view from HST 43041 (now scrapped) at Platform 1, as an unidentified HST is seen arriving on platform 3, also a now scrapped Heathrow Express class 332 can be seen, how things have changed from 29/03/11. Copyright Driver Alan Peters.

No idea why I took a picture of the roof at Paddington, I think it had recently been refurbished, March 2011. Copyright Driver Alan Peters.

Greenford - A Drivers cab view when the line was operated by class 165 Turbo units from Paddington 29/08/11. Copyright Driver Alan Peters.

Greenford Drivers eye view, on a wet 29/08/11, a semaphore signal outpost before the bay signal was replaced by colour light, pity I did not clear the windscreen of the class 165 unit. Copyright Driver Alan Peters.

Many thanks Alan - some views that many of us would never otherwise see.

Re: 47832
(& Re: July 1976)
Roger Geach

Following Neils picture of 47832, here is one of mine of 47832.

Nice shots from RW of the Newquay branch. On 10 July 1976 I think 1021 worked the 1030 Newquay - Paddington to Plymouth and returned from Plymouth with 1B95, the 0950 Paddington - Newquay - the normal diagram.

50002 worked 1E22, the 1005 Newquay - Newcastle as far as Plymouth, rather late.

47186 worked also, but not certain what services as I only saw some that day.

Was anyone else out and made notes?

47832 at Moorswater footbridge with a Paddington - Penzance service on 30.07.2000. I think thats a covered motorail coach right behind the loco. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger - a nice photo and some great notes to accompany Rogers recent articles.

Tuesday's Clay
Jon Hird & Mark Lynam

A sunny scene at Kerrow Moor, between Goonbarrow and Luxulyan, where we see 66759 leading 16 JIA's to Fowey as 6G09. 14.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

With its wagons unloaded, 66759 crosses the Golant Causeway at around 1900hrs with the empties for Goonbarrow. The spring tide is so high that the road along the harbour front is completely submerged. 14.07.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

Reflections of 66759 at Golant as the train heads for Lostwithiel. 14.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Many thanks for the photo Mark - we were pretty lucky with that sun!

July 1976
Part 15
Roger Winnen

45023 Departs Redruth. 17.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

A Class 47 at Long Rock. 17.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

D1021 Western Cavalier at Long Rock. 17.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

July 14th 2026

14/7/2026

Newquay 'Peak'
Clive Smith

Forty years ago. Think back to the Live Aid concert and this was the day. Having arrived on the 1V73 08.38 Manchester - Newquay, 45122 has run round and now awaits departure with the 18.00 to Plymouth. It would be just over two months before the last ever peak to Newquay. Let's hope 45118 makes an appearance at the resort soon to end that statistic. 45122 was originally numbered D11 and was the first of the class 45s.

The first peak Class 44s D1 - D10 were originally only fitted with the four disc style train identification system. During the last quarter of 1960 the first of the uprated BR/Sulzer Type 4's were released from Derby, D11 in September, D12 in October & D13 in November, all allocated to Derby (17A). With the decision to use a system of four character alpha/numeric train identification the current locomotive orders saw changes to their designs to accommodate the new train identification system. For the Peaks the initial change was the adding of two boxes on the nose end, split by the gangway doors that had been carried over from D1 - D10. With the discontinuance of the use of the nose end gangway doors these were generally removed and sheeted over as the locomotives went through Works.

45122 received its last classified repair during September 1985 and was withdrawn during April 1987. Source : derby sulzers site menu

45122 awaits departure from Newquay with the 18.00 to Plymouth. 13.07.1985, copyright Clive Smith.

Many thanks as always Clive, an interesting piece.

66168 - First and Last!
Neil Phillips

Whilst hunting through my old photo prints today I found these images from the early days of red Class 66 operation on 'the clays', specifically August 2002. Both locomotives have stories to tell - 66002 had been retained by EMD in London, Ontario for extended testing for a very long time, and following its eventual arrival in the UK it was immediately sent to Cornwall to work the china clay traffic, much to the annoyance of Class 66 spotters nationwide I would imagine! However since all 250 EWS Class 66s had been delivered by August 2000 (66001 and 66250 had been displayed side-by-side at the Old Oak Common Open Days of 5th/6th August of that year) I'm sure that my photos caught 66002 on a subsequent visit.

With 250 locos to choose from this may well have been 66168's first time on the clays, and as was well recorded a few months ago it was the last 'red Shed' to work these trains for DB Cargo as well, including the very last such working on 31st March 2026. Both machines still appear not long 'out of the box', a testament to the quality of the paint - a few examples are still running in the old EWS colours today and their paintwork has now lasted over two decades longer than anything applied to a WR diesel-hydraulic!

Second-built EWS Class 66 66002 arrives at Par with a rake of loaded CDA wagons bound for Fowey Docks. August 2002. Copyright Neil Phillips.

66002 awaits a clear path over the hill to Lostwithiel. August 2002. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Clear path granted and 66002 gets underway from Par. August 2002. Copyright Neil Phillips.

A still new-looking 66168 brings a rake of empty CDA wagons into Par station. August 2002. Copyright Neil Phillips.

66168 approaches Par Signal Box on its way back to Goonbarrow. August 2002. Copyright Neil Phillips.

66168 now in a different red livery waits at Par with the last DBC-hauled china clay working to Fowey. 31st March 2026. Copyright Neil Phillips.

66168 departs Par for Lostwithiel and Fowey Docks. 31st March 2026. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Many thanks Neil - well remembered/observed about 66168.

Class 66 - a side note
Simon Howard

Neil Phillps’s pictures of a nearly new 66002 prompted a memory. A few years ago I appointed a Non-Executive Director who had previously been very senior (I’m protecting him!) at EWS. He was a logistics/trucking man and was astounded by three things he encountered in his first week:

He inherited the contract for 250 Class 66s but the contract had no specific deliverables in terms of performance, fuel consumption or availability. That would never happen with a fleet of new trucks, he told me.
The previous week a 66 had caused mayhem as it had run out of fuel and caused a line blockage. “Why didn’t the driver look at the fuel gauge? That’s a pretty basic driver requirement. Trucks don’t stop on motorways because they’ve run out of fuel”. “There is no fuel gauge in the cab” came the reply. “The driver has to check on the lineside the fuel tanks”. You can guess the new executive’s response to that. Subsequently electronic repeater gauges have been fitted in the cab but apparently 70% are ineffective.
ASLEF were threatening strike action in defence of a driver who had (again) Passed a Signal at Danger. “That’s unbelievable” my confidant said “in trucking the drivers are responsible for having (in his company’s case) a totally clean driving licence. We had a total commitment to safety”.

The railways are obviously better than they were, but they are starting from a long way back…

Great stuff Simon, many thanks - very interesting to hear some inside tales of the 66 introduction.

Monday's Clay
Jon Hird

A glimpse through a rare clear spot in the Luxulyan Valley. 66759 and the midday Goonbarrow - Fowey JIA's descend towards St. Blazey. 13.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

July 1976
Part 14
Roger Winnen

Looking from the Aqueduct down on to the Newquay Branch with D1021 Western Cavalier passing by underneath. 10.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

A Class 50 on the Newquay Branch heading for Newquay. 10.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

The Class 50 climbs to Luxulyan. 10.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

A Class 47 heading west at Par. 10.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

July 13th 2026

13/7/2026

47832 'Tamar' - 24 years ago
Neil Phillips

Clive Smith/Nick Perring's photos of 47830 in GW green 'fag packet' livery following a visit by this long-serving Class 47 has prompted me to dig out these images of 47832 'Tamar' in these colours, taken at Par in August 2002. This loco was the 'odd man out' on the 'Mazey Day' specials of two weekends ago by NOT being a Class 37! It was of course back-up and ETS provider for WCRC's 37668/9. I remembered that I'd taken these photos of the loco as it roared past me propelling the return special away from Par station but wasn't sure where they were (seeking them out was literally the coolest thing I could think of doing on another hot day!)

47832 'Tamar' arrives at Par with an up passenger working in August 2002. Copyright Neil Phillips.

47832 'Tamar' powers away from Par in August 2002. Copyright Neil Phillips.

Many thanks Neil. The former FGW class 47 fleet has survived reasonably well in the years since it was disbursed - 47813/815/832 are with WCRC and 47830 now with LSL. 47811 still exists, but is reportedly a parts donor. 47816 sadly already scrapped.

Re: 47830
Roger Geach

I thought I'd find a picture of 47830 in Cornwall to go with yesterdays photos. This is Dobwalls on 09.07.1999, with 47830 on the 0822 Penzance to Paddington service. Some fresh ballast on the track. Copyright Roger Geach.

Many thanks Roger - a lovely scene.

Marazion Refurbished Voyagers
Andrew Triggs

West Penwith, Blue Skies and refurbished Voyagers on a Summer Sunday for CRS.

220007 passing Marazion working 1S53 11.30 Penzance-Edinburgh. 12.07.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

220033 approaching Marazion working the late running 1V46 09.30 Birmingham New Street-Penzance. 12.07.2026, copyright Andrew Triggs.

Many thanks Andrew, an eyecatching livery.

Sun's out, Sapper's about!
Jon Hird

Filling in for resident steam loco 5552 which was undergoing repairs, 47306 'The Sapper' was pressed into action at Bodmin on Sunday 12th to work the days services.

47306 passes a farm crossing near Boscarne Junction with the 1435 Bodmin General - Boscarne Junction. 12.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Driver Mat Simpson opens the taps as 47306 begins the climb back to Bodmin General with the 1502 from Boscarne. 12.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

The 1545 to Bodmin Parkway coasts down the gradient past Charlie's Gate. 12.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

The final train of the day, the 1615 from Bodmin Parkway, powering past Charlie's Gate. 12.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Minehead Hymek
Clive Smith

Hymek D7017 waits to depart with the 14.30 Minehead - Bishop's Lydeard. The West Somerset Railway has various diesel running days through the summer and in to the autumn. Random dates where one of the two timtabled services is a diesel with the other being steam. This is largely either one of the class 33s, a class 14 or a DMU . The Hymek only has very limited dates and this weekend was one. The other is 8-9th August. It's well worth a visit to experience D7017 as the trains were quiet and there were no crowds to spoil photos! 12.07.2026, copyright Clive Smith.

Many thanks Clive, superb looking loco. Here's the link to upcoming diesel days at the WSR.

July 1976
Part 13
Roger Winnen

Luxulyan Station, sans-trains. 10.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

A Class 47 at Luxulyan Station en route to Par, Plymouth etc. from Newquay. 10.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

A Class 47 passes The Kings Head Pub at Luxulyan with (what would now be deemed) vintage cars in the car park. 10.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

July 12th 2026

12/7/2026

Nick Perring Photos #20
47830
Clive Smith

Following on from 47830's rare appeance in Devon this weekend, here it is in its First Great Western green 'fag packet' livery.

47830 at Plymouth on the 16th September 2000 with the 09.33 Paddington - Penzance. I believe the first two vehicles are Motorail carriages conveying cars. Copyright Clive Smith (Original photographer Nick Perring).

47830 at Taunton on the 16th July 2002 with the 07.30 Plymouth - Paddington. Copyright Clive Smith (Original photographer Nick Perring).

Many thanks Clive - a locomotive who has served all of her owners well. Let's hope for a long future in service with LSL.

47830 - The Present Day
Jon Hird

Ex-FGW workhorse 47830 was back on its old stomping ground yesterday afternoon, leading the returning Kingswear - High Wycombe charter past Dawlish Warren. 47810 on the rear. The tour was originally meant to be steam hauled, but the heatwave put an end to that. 11.07.2026, copyright Jon Hird.

Western 175
Mark Lynam

One of a very limited number of 175's operating on Saturday 11th, 175011 passes Wheal Busy foot crossing working the heavily delayed 1443 Plymouth - Penzance. 11.07.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

The units return working was cancelled, instead it ran back to Laira empty around 50 minutes after it should have left on a passenger diagram. The empty unit is seen again passing Scorrier from Apex Bridge. 11.07.2026, copyright Mark Lynam.

Many thanks Mark. Another day of cancellations, short forming and late running all over the western region - not great for the passengers.

July 1976
Part 12
Roger Winnen

Bugle Station showing the Wheal Rose Branch. 10.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

A Class 47 heads through Bugle towards Newquay. 10.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

Bugle Station. 10.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

A Class 50 at Bugle on a service from Newquay. 10.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

D1021 Western Cavalier at Molines Crossing Bugle, heading for Newquay. 10.07.1976, copyright Roger Winnen.

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